X

What are you doing this weekend? Find something fun on the Visit Hudson NY Events Calendar

View now »

Proprietor Profile: Michael LaCasse

Michael LaCasse- True Strength- Hudson, NY
Michael LaCasse- True Strength Coaching- Hudson, NY

What do you do, and what makes it unique?

I have been a personal strength and conditioning coach in the Hudson Valley since 2012, and am now a first time business owner, with a studio, True Strength Coaching, now right on Warren Street! My training style is definitely tailored to each of my clients’ individual goals.

With that being said, the most important aspect of my training is connecting with my clients. I have built many friendships through the years helping clients learn core weightlifting techniques, plyometrics, body weight movements, balance intervention, joint range of motion/mobility and injury prevention.

Also, focusing on one’s lifestyle- sleep, hydration and nutrition habits- are all key when it comes to burning fat and gaining muscle. I coined the term ‘True Strength’ from that client – coach connection. Building muscle and burning fat through the basics of exercise should be fun!

What brought you to Hudson, and how long have you been here?

I was born and raised in Hudson. I left shortly after high school to play Division-III football and earn a degree in Applied Biology. Upon returning to Hudson after college I coached both J.V. and Varsity football for the Hudson High School Bluehawks. I ran the strength and conditioning program and worked with athletes who played sports such as baseball, softball, volleyball, and track and field.

What’s it like being a part of Hudson’s business community?

I am in the infancy of my business and I can’t tell you how exciting it is. The potential of all of the businesses in Hudson is off the charts. The diversity of the locals and visitors is astonishing. Seeing what Hudson was like in the 90s to the present day is nothing short of amazing. What a turnaround!

What makes Hudson a unique place to visit?

Within a seven block radius- all walking distance- one can experience some of the best food and drinks spots in the Hudson Valley. An upscale sports bar such as 225 Warren, to the speakeasy vibes of The Maker, to a personal favorite of mine Lawrence Park- their cocktails and food combined with the ambiance is just top-notch.

What’s your favorite Hudson event?

That’s easy- the Hudson Pride Parade. It shows the diversity and progressiveness Hudson has to offer. Plus it’s always a great time where the community comes together as one.

What is one thing visitors to Hudson must see while they’re here?

A hidden gem in Hudson is the Hudson Brewing Company. They are located at the old L&B warehouses – a short walk from the Amtrak station. All local beers and spirits, live music events alongside the Jonesin’ Food Truck, which serves fantastic southern style pub fare.

What’s your idea of a perfect weekend in and around Hudson?

Any combination of the above restaurants and bars, with one addition: dinner at Wm. Farmer & Sons is a must. The food is delicious.

To balance out the nightlife, perhaps a yoga session at Bodhi Spa or Sadhana, and a personal training sessions at True Strength, or our friends at LYF Style or The Maker Gymnasium.

What is your favorite memory of being in Hudson (so far?)

Well, I have been here for a while now. Training and playing high school football here is my #1. The Hudson High School football tradition spans across many decades and football was my first positive experience- it was then that I first learned that, when one puts the work and time in, success will surely follow. After that, I’d say opening True Strength Coaching- for me, there’s nothing better than being able to teach, coach and change lives in the Hudson community I grew up in.

Photos by Michael Molinski